If you’re trying to improve the quality of your sleep, then read on to learn why you should sleep on your left side.
While some people sleep on their backs, stomachs, and right sides, developing research suggests added benefits when sleeping on your left side.
In this article, you will learn why sleeping on your left side is the key to better health.
Before we dive into the article, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to receive alerts when we post new health and wellness videos.Without further ado, let’s dive into the benefits of sleeping on your left side.
Is Sleeping On Your Left Side Bad For Your Heart?
Sleeping positions have a lot more impact than most people think they do.
For instance, sleeping on your left side can improve blood flow to your heart.
When the heart moves blood through the body, it circulates and flows back into your heart through the right side of the body.
Sleeping on your left side promotes better heart health by relieving pressure on your right side.
Heart Healthy Sleep Position For Women
Sleeping during pregnancy can be difficult, but sleeping with a pregnant belly means you are already experiencing extra pressure on your heart and other vital organs.
Since the baby is pushing upwards on your organs, it is best to sleep on your left side to relieve pressure and promote healthy blood flow.
What About Sleeping On Your Right Side?
A study from the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that sleeping on your right side makes you more vulnerable to gastrointestinal problems like acid reflux and heartburn.
The study looked at 1,000 stomach patients split into three groups: those who slept primarily left-side, center, or right-sided sleepers.
It was discovered that there are definite disadvantages for people with sensitive stomachs who sleep on their right side.
Additionally, people who sleep on their right side daily report higher levels of back pain and chronic neck problems.
Benefits Of Sleeping On Your Left Side
Left-side sleeping is without a doubt the best position for your overall health and well-being.
While our bodies may seem mostly symmetrical, the placement of our body’s important organs is actually asymmetrical.
Therefore, what side you sleep on can make a significant difference in your health.
Let’s explore different health concerns that you can address with left side sleep.
Left Side Sleep For Gastrointestinal Disorders
For some people, bowel movements happen regularly with little to no discomfort. Others are not quite so fortunate.
Approximately 15% of people in the United States alone struggle with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Sleeping on your left helps gravity do its job of transporting waste through your colon more efficiently and comfortably.
Get Rid Of Heartburn
The idea that left-side sleeping aids digestion and waste elimination is an ancient Ayurvedic principle, but modern research has also shown this to be true.
Researchers believe that if humans sleep on their left side, the stomach’s gastric juices will steer clear of the esophagus during sleep.
Improved Brain Health
Sleeping on your left side also helps cleanse waste from your brain.
When you sleep in this position, it tends to clear out what is called interstitial fluid and promotes better circulation within your brain tissue.
Left side sleep can help you maintain a sharp mind well into old age while also minimizing the possibility of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Reduce Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Sleeping on your left side not only relieves snoring but also keeps your respiratory passages open.
If you suspect that there could be a more serious problem like sleep apnea, it is essential to schedule an appointment with your doctor for a consultation.
What Sleeping Position Is Best For Neck Pain?
The recommended sleeping positions for neck pain are on your back or your side.
The left side, in particular, is recommended when you want to relieve unnecessary strain and maintain a straight spine.
Some people find that sleeping on their left side is uncomfortable because they are used to other positions.
To make this position more comfortable while preventing neck pain, use a higher pillow under your neck than beneath your head.
Fully body alignment during sleep is critical for effective neck pain relief.
Summary
If you’re ready to improve your sleep quality, try this natural solution before turning to medications.
If you are sick and tired of waking up feeling unrested, or experiencing adverse effects of back and stomach sleep, left side sleep can make a difference after just one night.
Enjoy less snoring, better breathing, easier digestion, and reduced pain by switching to the left side sleeping position.
By switching sleep positions, you also have the opportunity to reduce the likelihood of heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and neurological diseases.Now that you have all the facts about left side sleep, it’s time to get a good night’s rest and wake up feeling refreshingly healthy!